It’s extremely important to put a mask on before you go somewhere that tends to get crowded, like the grocery store, pharmacy, department store, transit bus, school, gym, school bus, or place of worship. It’s hard to social distance in these types of places, so it’s easier for the virus to spread. Federal law requires that everyone onboard planes, trains, cruise ships, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services to wear masks. Don’t close the window if it has been opened; the window allows for fresh air to enter the train, bus, or taxi and for COVID-19 to dilute in the environment. When in doubt, it’s best to mask up.
This includes small family gatherings, visits with friends, and play dates with your children’s friends. As of July 2021, the CDC still recommends following social distancing guidelines if you’re unvaccinated, even in small gatherings. If you decide to meet up with friends or family, try to do it outside, keep distance between yourselves—the U. S. recommends a distance of at least 6 ft (1. 8 m)—and wear your masks. [5] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Stay at home except to get medical care if you may have COVID-19. Symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath or trouble breathing, headache, the new loss of taste or smell, fatigue, blueish lips and/ or face, body aches, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. [7] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source You may also wear a mask if someone in your house has a confirmed case of COVID-19. However, keep in mind that your mask may not offer any protection. Do your best to stay in a separate room from your ill housemate while they’re recovering. Additionally, wash your hands often and sanitize high-touch surfaces daily. [8] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
You might say, “It’s okay for you to take off your mask until we get to the bus stop, but then I need you to put it back on. ” For instance, you might ask them to wear their mask in places like the bus stop, the school bus, the hallway at school, and the grocery store.
Depending on the number of cases in your area and whether you are at higher risk yourself, consider wearing a mask even if your employer does not require it.
If you’re a walker or runner, you might get your exercise outdoors. If you enjoy group classes at your gym, try doing a video aerobic, dance, or kickboxing workout at home instead. You may still be able to wear your mask during weight lifting sessions. If not, try lifting weights at home or doing bodyweight exercises.
Sometimes it’s not possible to distance while you’re in busy places, like the grocery store. Similarly, you might not be able to social distance while on a transit bus or while using a rideshare. Just do your best!
Carry your mask with you just in case you need it. Consider wearing a mask outdoors in very crowded conditions or where you expect to be encountering people who have not been fully vaccinated. [14] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Remember to put your mask on if someone who doesn’t live with you comes over, whether it’s a guest or a repair person. [16] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
For example, you might wear your mask on the beach but take it off while you’re in the water.
For example, don’t put a mask on a family member who receives in-home care unless you know for sure they can pull it off if they’re having trouble breathing.
Warning: Since the highly-contagious Omicron variant became the dominant strain of the virus globally, cloth masks are no longer effective at preventing transmission. Use a surgical or n-95 mask instead. [22] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you don’t have a mask, it’s okay to use a bandana or scarf as long as it covers your nose and mouth. However, keep in mind that these face coverings won’t provide as much protection as a mask. Wash your mask in a washing machine after every use. [23] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Don’t reuse your disposable masks when possible. Always throw them away after each use.
If double masking feels very uncomfortable for you or it does not seem like it is improving the fit, you may want to just wear a single mask instead.
It’s okay to let your child wear an adult mask if the child-sized mask feels too snug for your child or doesn’t cover their nose and mouth. Try getting fun prints so your child is more excited about wearing their masks.
You can find clear masks online. Some of these masks have fabric along the outside of the mask with a clear window in the middle so your lips are visible.
For example, you may find masks at the hardware store that have a vent to allow airflow. N95 masks made for industrial settings aren’t the same as medical-grade N95 masks. [29] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source Save these masks for home improvement projects.
